Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island

South AustraliaAustralia

Why You'll Love Kangaroo Island

If you're looking for a unique adventure that's not too far from Adelaide, Kangaroo Island is surely worth a visit! This picturesque island is located off the coast of South Australia and features some of the most amazing wildlife and landscapes that you won't find anywhere else in the world. So, if you're a nature lover or an animal enthusiast, you'll love this destination!

Firstly, let's talk animals. Kangaroo Island is home to small native marsupials called kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. Additionally, the Australian sea lion can be found lounging on the rocky shores and sea birds are commonplace along the rugged coastline. And, if you're lucky, you might even spot a few echidnas and platypuses hiding in the wilderness.

Aside from the animals, there are also plenty of other attractions on Kangaroo Island. You'll find stunning beaches with crystal clear blue waters and gorgeous rock formations, like Admiral's Arch and Remarkable Rocks. There are also a number of hiking trails where you can explore the island and see the lovely scenery up close.

When it comes to food, Kangaroo Island won't disappoint. The island is known for its fresh seafood and local produce, such as honey, cheese, and wine.

Overall, Kangaroo Island is a must-visit destination that's perfect for anyone who loves nature. So, why not come see it for yourself?

Getting to Kangaroo Island

The nearest airport to Kangaroo Island is Kingscote Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle to your desired destination on Kangaroo Island. You can also take a ferry from Cape Jervis to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, which takes about 45 minutes. If coming from Adelaide, you can drive to Cape Jervis (approximately 1.5 hours) and then take the ferry.

The closest city to Kangaroo Island is Adelaide, in South Australia.

Travelling from Adelaide Airport to Kangaroo Island

When to Visit

The best time to visit Kangaroo Island in South Australia is between September and November or from March to May when the weather is mild and pleasant for wildlife watching and outdoor activities.

Weather and Climate

In summer (December to February), the weather is warm with occasional hot days, averaging around 25-28°C (77-82°F). Autumn (March to May) brings cooler temperatures with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Winter (June to August) is the coolest and wettest time of year with temperatures averaging around 10-15°C (50-59°F) and occasional storms. Spring (September to November) brings milder temperatures with cool nights and warmer days, averaging around 15-20°C (59-68°F).

Costs When Visiting

In Australia, the currency is the Australian dollar.
Some sample costs when travelling around Kangaroo Island are:

Food:
- Basic meal at a local restaurant: AUD 20-30
- Pizza at a takeaway shop: AUD 15-20
- Fish and chips from a local seafood shop: AUD 10-15
- Breakfast at a cafe: AUD 10-20
- Purchase of groceries for self-catering: AUD 50-100 per day

Accommodation:
- Hostel dormitory: AUD 30-50 per night
- Budget motel/hotel room: AUD 80-120 per night
- Airbnb or holiday rental: AUD 100-250 per night
- Luxury resort or beach house: AUD 300-1000+ per night

Safety Rating

Kangaroo Island is generally considered safe for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and the island has a small, tight-knit community that is welcoming to visitors. There are no specific safety concerns for women, and the island is generally considered LGBTQ-friendly. In terms of racial tolerance, the island is predominately white and has limited diversity, but visitors of all backgrounds are welcome and treated respectfully.

Local Population

According to the 2016 Australian Census, the population of Kangaroo Island is approximately 4,417 people. The demographics of the population are predominantly white with a few indigenous Australians. English is the main language spoken on the island. The majority of the population identify as Christians, with a smaller number identifying as non-religious or other religions. The gender breakdown is approximately equal with slightly more females than males.

Things to Do

Some common activities for tourists at Kangaroo Island include wildlife viewing (particularly kangaroos, sea lions, and penguins), visiting national parks and conservation areas, exploring beaches and coastline, hiking and walking trails, visiting wineries and local food producers, and taking scenic drives. Other popular activities include visiting historical landmarks and museums, kayaking, surfing, and fishing.